Trivia:
Did you know that in the ‘50s and ‘60s, popular actresses were in demand as sagalas in santacruzan during the month of May? Oftentimes, they were the Reyna Elenas or Reina de los Flores on the finale parade held in various places in the Philippines that attracted countless watchers on the streets. Since way back, it was a traditional festival to commemorate the traditional biblical characters and events.
Of course, top stars then Gloria Romero, Alicia Vergel, the late Nida Blanca, Susan Roces and Amalia Fuentes were allowed to join by their movie producers in the May time special presentations usually held in Metro Manila in the presence of big time politicians and foreign guests.
The pretty actresses who often graced the santacruzan far and wide as Reyna Elena or Reyna de los Flores were the late Tessie Quintana, Corazon Noble, Olivia Cenizal, Anita Linda, Leila Morena, Luz Valdez, Luisa Montesa, Marita Zobel, Delia Razon, among others.
This writer fondly recalled that when I was still a college student, one of my classmates was the promising dramatic actress of Premiere Productions Cynthia Zamora. By nature an amiable person we developed a deep friendly relationship. Truth to tell, not a few organizers of the santacruzan approached me. They wanted me to invite Cynthia to be a sagala which I gladly nodded. She readily consented that truly elated me.
During the time of the noted Stars’66 under Sampaguita Pictures composed of Shirley Moreno, Loretta Maquez, Blanca Gomez and Rosemarie Sonora, it so happened I was already a movie scribe and attached to their big boss Dr. Jose Perez which ushered in to be chummy with them.
At that, in many occasions in May, I was instrumental for the Stars’ 66 to be the part of the santacruzan. Being more attached to Shirley, she never turned her back albeit she had been occupied with her acting profession. Most often, Shirley requested this writer to accompany her be it in Metro Manila or in the provinces.
The more closeness beckoned us for her actor-boyfriend Henry Stevens was a pal since his tyro years in showbiz. After their marriage, the duo opted to leave for U.S. yet the long distance to this day has not hampered my attachment to Shirley and Henry.
The two are happy, successful couple blessed with kids. We frequently continue to exchange conversation through face book or over the phone.
Old timers mourn the recent death of ex-actress Josephine Estrada at 75 in Arizona, U.S last April 9, 2019. This made me recall she was also a favorite in santacruzan. A contract star of Sampaguita Pictures, she represented the Philippines at the Miss Universe 1962 in Miami that top actors then chose her to be their leading lady.
Josephine’s early starrers were Octavia, Tanzan VS Tarsan, Birds of Paradise with co-beauty queen turned actress Cynthia Ugalde. Her last movies in 1983 before she migrated to U.S. were Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan? with Vilma Santos, Hilda Koronel and JR, opposite Gabby Concepcion.
Kris, Nicko on the Verge of Settlement
After the filed cases of Kris Aquino and her ex-business associate Nicko Falcis against each other were dismissed by the Courts, people around the duo anticipate their reconciliation as friends anew. Nicko’s lawyer brother Jess hinted he had buttonhole with Kris’ lawyer to discuss amicable settlement for Kris and Nicko.
As of this writing, nothing has been formalized. However, in her social media accounts, Kris encumbered her previous mistakes. She expressed gratitude to God for guiding her to the right path in facing the realities. Apparently, Kris has acknowledged the advices of those who have not left her in her pitfalls, headed by her family.
Career-wise, nice to hear that with her doughty character, Kris will soon face the cameras anew as TV host and actress.
No regrets for Alden
On Alden Richards brief stay in the Philippines to grace the blessing of his fast food franchise in Binan, Laguna, he confided to the media men. He has no regrets to accept the offer to co-star with Kathryn Bernardo in the movie Hello, Love, Goodbye being shot in Hong Kong.
“I’m truly amazed for Kathryn and her co-workers under ABS-CBN treat me like a member of its Kapamilya station. I didn’t expect such treatment, especially Kathryn whose amiable nature makes her easy to work with.” Alden was quoted to say.
Before Alden enplaned back to Hong Kong to finish Hello, Love, Goodbye, he assuaged those diehards of Eat Bulaga TV show not to worry. He’ll be back to co-host the program soon, not to quit. In jest, he has alloyed Daniel Padilla. “huwag kang mag-alaala for I’ve no intention to court Kathryn.”
Nadine Lustre: Unmindful of Criticisms
Winning the FAMAS night 2019 best actress award for Never Love You Makes Nadine Lustre a controversial figure. Observers throw criticisms she does not deserve the trophy while some commented how could she beat versatile actresses Judy Ann Santos (Ang Dalawang Mrs. Reyes), Anne Curtis (Sid & Aya) and even multi-awarded vet actress Perla Bautista ( Dapit Hapon).
An above board Janine, however, reacted unmindful of their opinions. She herself didn’t anticipate to be chosen by the FAMAS body. Yet she’s truly elated, grateful for that accolade handed by its officers, members. Oh well, for years I was a member turned officer of the FAMAS before staying in Canada. Just like other award giving organizations, controversies would never elude the choices of the winners.
Is Lovi Poe Quitting Showbiz?
Almost six months of absence in the limelight leads talks a brewing that Lovi Poe quits showbiz. A pal, however, recounted to me seeing her in La Vida Lovely in Los Angeles, U.S. where the daughter of the late movie king Fernando Poe Jr. stays. Lovi confirmed to my source she won’t leave showbiz for good.
Now prettier, sexier than before, Lovi affirmed she’ll be back to acting, particularly if right project taps her. She hastened to add that even abroad her support for senatorial bet Grace Poe didn’t cease. Lovi’s confident Grace would make it to the top three in the Senate slate.
Blind Item:
A hunk actor does not deny to his buddies that once in his life, he was truly a bad guy abroad. He easily lost dander, bullied, hurt others. The worst, he stole items from the mall, stores then. But since he mended his ways, he has promised the Lord to cross the right path. Admittedly, the actor can’t open up his past to shun public wrong accusation.
Latest Tidbits:
Once again the Filipinos reap honors in singing, dancing abroad. World of Dance U.S handed the PPEPZ group in 4th place and warbler Jej Vinson has reached the top 13 of the ongoing Voice U.S. His coach picked him over his team members who showered him with praises for his prowess.
Cannes International Film Festival 2019 acknowledged the versatility of actor Piolo Pascual and director Lav Diaz. The duo’s film Ang Hupa was chosen to be included at the Directors Fortnight, a non-competitive division of the film fest. It’s about a futuristic occurrence in Asian countries where madmen control the places with scientific epidemics. Both Lav and Piolo garnered accolades in various countries.
Three Pinoys are nominees at the 93rd Tony Awards in U.S. they are Eva Noblezada for best actress (Miss Saigon), Robert Brills for best scenic designer (Ain’t Proud to Beg) and Clint Ramos for best costume designer (Torch for Song). Will Eva duplicate Lea Salonga’s feat as best actress for Miss Saigon? It propelled Lea to international fame.
Both Anne Curtis and Ian Perez asseverate their love for Vice Ganda. That’s the reason why Anne accepted to co-star with Vice in a movie intended for Metro Manila Film Festival 2019 which serves their ten years of friendship. A part of Vice’s noontime TV show It’s Showtime, Ian exclaimed he truly loves him that directly makes many to conclude the two are lovers. The three were together at the recent California presentation of It’s Showtime.
The presence of Maine Mendoza’s diehard fans at the party tendered to her by Arjo Atayde contravened the Aldub followers are against Arjo. They accepted the fact, not drool Maine chose him over Alden.